Monday, December 23, 2013

What is the Duck Dynasty Controversy?

The Duck Dynasty controversy refers to the media uproar after the comments made by patriarch Phil Robertson to GQ Magazine on homosexuality.

Following the comments, GLAAD boycotted the show, and A&E put Phil Robertson on indefinite suspension.

Phil Robertson said, "It's seems to me, a vagina - as a man - would be more desirable than a man's anus; that's just me." He continued, "I mean, come on dudes! That's just not logical."

"Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there...bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman, and that woman and those men," said Phil Robertson to GQ Magazine.

Recent Comments from Phil Robertson

MailOnline was allowed to have one reporter into Phil's church Bible study. Phil said he would not "give or back off" on his stance on homosexuality.

In his class, Phil said, "I am just reading what was written over 2,000 years ago. Those who live like this will not inherit the Kingdom. All I did was quote from the scriptures, but they just didn't know it. Whether I said it, or they read it, what's the difference? The sins are the same, humans haven't changed."

The Palins and the Robertsons

Sarah Palin in a picture with the Robertsons (Sarah Palin/Facebook)

Bristol Palin Posts Her Thoughts on the Duck Dynasty Controversy on Facebook

Bristol Palin put her thoughts about the Duck Dynasty controversy on her Facebook page. She posted "Free speech is an endangered species Those 'intolerants' hatin' and taking on the 'Duck Dynasty' patriarch for voicing his personal opinion are taking on all of us."

"I hate how the LGBT community says its all about 'love' and 'equality'. However, if you don't agree with their lifestyle, they spread the most hate. It is so hypocritical, it makes my stomach turn."

Bristol Palin says, "If I were the Robertsons, I would take my show to another channel."

Cracker Barrel is First Major Retailer to Pull Duck Dynasty Products

Cracker Barrel was the first major retailer to pull Duck Dynasty products from their shelves in response to GLAAD's outcry over Phil's homosexuality comments. After many calls, emails, and messages on Twitter, Cracker Barrel has given in, and resumed selling Duck Dynasty products.

Cracker Barrel released a statement regarding their recent actions:

"Dear Cracker Barrel Customer:

When we made the decision to remove and evaluate certain Duck Dynasty items, we offended many of our loyal customers. Our intent was to avoid offending, but that's just what we've done.

You told us we made a mistake. And, you weren't shy about it.You wrote, you called and you took to social media to express your thoughts and feelings. You flat out told us that we were wrong.

We listened.

And, we apologize for offending you.

We respect all individuals right to express their beliefs. We certainly did not mean to have anyone think different.

We sincerely hope you continue to be part of our Cracker Barrel family."